Facsnet.org Logo

New Hampshire Public Records

All residents of New Hampshire are entitled to obtain, examine, and scrutinize any available state public records. These records are open and can be reviewed by the general populace. The New Hampshire Right to Know Law is a series of statutes designed to guarantee that the public has access to public records of governmental bodies. Public records are any information created, accepted, or obtained by, or on behalf of, any public body. Authorized bodies are equipped to offer details regarding an individual’s criminal history, property registrations, and business dealings. Furthermore, government entities in possession of such records readily furnish data concerning death, birth, or marriage to those who request it.

How to Request New Hampshire Public Records?

The simplest method to obtain a public record is to reach out directly to the state or city agency responsible. Access can also be secured via private sources, given the records are open to the public.

Table of Contents

To request New Hampshire public records, proceed with the steps below:

Where to find Public Records in New Hampshire

Depending on the type of record you are seeking, there are numerous options for where you can find public records in New Hampshire.

Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce):

Vital records information can be requested from the Office of the Secretary of State. Alternatively, these records can also be accessed via the State Records platform.

Property Records:

In New Hampshire, property records are obtainable at the Registry of Deeds for the county where the property is situated. Many counties offer online databases, allowing you to search for records by owner name, address, or parcel number. Additionally, the city or town assessor's office can provide information on property assessments, while tax-related records can be accessed through the local Tax Collector's Office. Some records may require a visit to these offices, and fees might apply for obtaining copies. For convenience, third-party websites also compile these records and may offer them online, sometimes for a fee.

Business Records:

Business records in New Hampshire are accessible through the New Hampshire Secretary of State's Office, Corporation Division. You can find information on registered businesses using the QuickStart online search tool available on the Secretary of State's website. This allows for searches by business name, ID, filing number, or registered agent. For detailed records or certified documents, requests can be made either in person or through written communication with the Corporation Division. Some records may require a fee, and for any assistance, the office can be directly contacted via phone or email.

Court Records:

Court records in New Hampshire are available through the New Hampshire Judicial Branch. You can access many of these records online via the Judicial Branch website, which offers electronic case access. For records that are not available online or for certified copies, you can make a request in person or in writing to the clerk's office of the court where the case was filed. Some court records may be confidential and not publicly accessible. For more information or assistance, you can contact the Judicial Branch directly.

Driving Records:

Driving records in New Hampshire can be obtained from the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). To access your driving record, you can request it online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. You'll need to provide your personal details and potential documentation for identification, along with the required fee. Note that access to another person's driving record may be restricted to authorized entities or individuals with specific consent.

Professional Licenses

Professional license records in New Hampshire are managed by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC). You can find these records by visiting the OPLC website, where they offer an online verification system to look up the status of professional licenses. This service is available to the public and allows you to search for licensed professionals across various fields. For more in-depth information or specific documentation, you may need to contact the OPLC directly or submit a formal request.

New Hampshire State Archives:

State archives records in New Hampshire are housed at the New Hampshire State Archives, which is a division of the Department of State. These historical records can be accessed by visiting the State Archives in person, located in Concord, NH. They offer a range of historical documents, including legislative records, state agency records, and other historical materials. For those who cannot visit in person, the State Archives provides certain services and information requests via mail, email, or phone. Additionally, some digitized records may be available through their online catalog or digital archives.

Are New Hampshire Public Records Available Online?

Yes. Most records in New Hampshire are available online, although there are some exceptions, such as vital records like birth and death certificates.

For vital records, the New Hampshire Secretary of State (SOS) website offers downloadable applications for obtaining certified copies by mail for various certificates, including birth, marriage, divorce, civil union, and death.

Additionally, a wide range of records can be accessed through the State Records online portal. If it’s court records you need, the New Hampshire Judicial Branch website is your go-to resource for access and retrieval.

For specific records such as property deeds, the appropriate Register of Deeds can be reached online.

If you’re in need of bankruptcy records, the PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) case locator portal is the place to find them. PACER provides comprehensive access to bankruptcy, appellate, and district court case information, with options to save case details for future reference.

State Public Records Law

The New Hampshire public records law is embodied in the New Hampshire Right to Know Law, codified in Chapter 91-A of the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA). This law is designed to ensure that the state’s governmental proceedings, records, and decisions are open to the public, promoting transparency and accountability within the government.

Which records are public in New Hampshire?

Which Records Are Not Public in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, not all records are open to the public. Among those typically restricted from general access are:

New Hampshire Background Checks

In New Hampshire, background checks are used to verify an individual’s history for employment, tenancy, or other purposes that require character vetting. New Hampshire’s privacy laws also limit the release of certain information without the subject’s consent, so not all details might be available in a background check.

 

To conduct a background check, you can either approach the New Hampshire State Police, use online state resources, or employ the services of third-party companies that specialize in compiling background checks. Remember to adhere to all legal requirements when requesting and using the information obtained from background checks.

What Can Be Included In a Background Check Report?

Criminal Records

Details of any convictions, arrests, sentences, and incarcerations within the state of New Hampshire. Information may also include pending arrests or charges without disposition if they are less than a year old.

Employment History

Verification of past employment, including dates of employment, positions held, and reasons for leaving.

Credit History

Credit reports provide insights into an individual's financial responsibility, including debt, loans, credit accounts, and payment histories, assuming the background check is for employment in a position where such information is relevant,s and the individual has given permission.

Educational Verification

Confirmation of degrees and certifications claimed by the individual, obtained directly from educational institutions.

Driving Records

State driving records showing licenses, traffic violations, DUI records, and other driving-related incidents.

Sex Offender Registry Check

Information regarding whether the individual is listed on the sex offender registry which is a consideration, especially for positions that involve working with vulnerable populations.

Civil Court Records

Information on civil litigation history, including any past lawsuits, judgments, liens, or bankruptcies.

Professional License Verification

Confirmation that the individual holds the professional licenses they claim as relevant to their profession.

Reference Checks

Comments and feedback from personal and professional references.

Compliance with Industry Regulations

Depending on the industry, there may be specific regulatory requirements for background checks, such as FINRA checks for financial professionals.

New Hampshire Court Records

Overview of the New Hampshire court system and its Structure

The New Hampshire judicial system includes a hierarchy of courts with distinct functions:

  • New Hampshire Supreme Court: The New Hampshire Supreme Court is the pinnacle of the state’s judicial hierarchy, overseeing appeals from trial courts and administrative agencies. It is empowered to issue writs like habeas corpus and to remedy errors from circuit, district, superior, and family courts. This court also interprets case law and statutes and permits public access to non-confidential court records, except in cases involving confidential matters, guardianship of minors, or mental health issues.
  • Superior Court: New Hampshire’s Superior Court has jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters, excluding those reserved for circuit courts. Each county has a Superior Court, with Hillsborough County having two. The court addresses contracts, negligence, real property rights, and civil claims of at least $1,500, and has exclusive jurisdiction over cases with damages above $25,000. It also hears appeals for misdemeanors from the Circuit Court District Division.
  • New Hampshire Circuit Courts: The Circuit Courts are a unified system combining the District, Family, and Probate courts, with centralized management. They possess the authority to adjudicate cases across their three divisions. The state is divided into ten circuits, each serving its respective county, and comprises 34 Circuit Courts that attend to the local communities.
  • District Courts: Operating under the Circuit Court umbrella, District Courts handle offenses such as misdemeanors, small claims, stalking, landlord-tenant disputes, civil cases, and motor vehicle matters. Across the state, there are 32 district divisions within the Circuit Courts. Records from these courts are accessible to the public through the clerks of the respective courthouses, provided there are no overriding legal constraints.
  • Probate Courts: Probate Courts in New Hampshire hold jurisdiction over matters including adoption, termination of parental rights, trusts, wills, guardianship, equity, name changes, and involuntary commitments. Officers in these courts determine the need for adult commitment to state hospitals and assess potential dangers posed by individuals to themselves or others. They also decide on the appointment of guardians for financial and health well-being decisions.
  • Family Courts: Family Courts have authority over domestic-related issues such as parenting disputes, guardianships of minors, abuse or neglect cases, and child support. They also handle cases involving children in need or those related to divorce proceedings. In New Hampshire, mediation is stressed in family cases, particularly involving children, with the final decisions made by a judge. Mediators or child support referees’ recommendations require a judge’s approval. The state’s ten counties are served by 28 family divisions.

Types of New Hampshire Court Records

Civil Court Records​

Criminal Court

Family Court Records​

Land Records and Deeds

Probate Court Records​

Traffic Court Records​

Traffic Court Records​

Appeals Records

Restrictions, Limitations, and Confidentiality

In New Hampshire, as in all states, access to certain court records may be restricted or limited due to various reasons, including privacy concerns, legal protections, and confidentiality laws. Here are some common restrictions and limitations:

  • Juvenile Records: Records involving juvenile offenders or cases in the family court involving minors are typically sealed to protect the privacy of the young individuals involved.
  • Victim Information: To protect victims of crimes, particularly in sensitive cases like sexual offenses or domestic violence, identifying information may be redacted or sealed.
  • Witness Protection: Details that could jeopardize the safety of witnesses may be kept confidential.
  • Mental Health Records: Records concerning mental health evaluations, treatments, or commitments are usually confidential due to the sensitive nature of the information.
  • Adoption Records: Adoption proceedings and related filings are sealed to protect the privacy of all parties involved, especially the adopted child.
  • Trade Secrets and Proprietary Information
  • In civil cases involving businesses, trade secrets and proprietary business information may be protected from public disclosure.
  • Law Enforcement and Government Records: Ongoing investigations, certain law enforcement tactics, and national security matters are kept confidential.
  • Personal Identifiers: Social Security numbers, bank account details, and other personal identifiers are redacted from court records to prevent identity theft and fraud.
  • Sealed Cases: Some cases may be sealed by a judge’s order, meaning that the records are not available to the public.
  • Expunged Records: If a court has ordered the expungement of a record, it is removed from public access and treated as if it never existed.
  • Family Matters: Details in family law cases, such as divorce or custody matters, might have restricted access to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.

What do these records contain

New Hampshire Public Vital Records

Marriage and Divorce Records: These can be obtained from the VRA or from the clerk’s office of the city/town where the marriage license was issued or where the divorce was granted.

Birth and Death Records: Find these records at the New Hampshire Division of Vital Records Administration (VRA) or the city/town clerk’s office where the birth or death occurred.

Civil Union Records: The VRA also maintains civil union records. For events that occurred after 2010, these records are available at the VRA office.

Online Databases: New Hampshire does not provide direct online ordering for vital records. However, certified third-party vendors linked from the VRA’s website can process online requests.

Historical Records: Older records, which are often available for genealogical research, may be found at the New Hampshire State Archives or through various historical and genealogical societies.

New Hampshire Public Criminal Records

Definition and Types of Criminal Records in New Hampshire

New Hampshire criminal records compile an individual’s criminal history or background, which is produced and kept by law enforcement entities. These records are accessible for viewing under specific conditions and may include a person’s physical attributes, known aliases, past criminal convictions, or criminal history summary.

Included within these records are any charges faced by the individual, the results of judicial proceedings, and any penalties levied. Criminal convictions are part of a person’s criminal background and will stay on record until the individual successfully petitions for a record annulment.

Under the New Hampshire Right to Know laws, the public is granted the right to access non-confidential criminal records held by government bodies, barring any legal restrictions. Such records are created and held by law enforcement bodies, including the New Hampshire State Police.

A typical criminal record from New Hampshire features the following elements:

  • Personal Information: Full name, including any known aliases, date of birth, physical descriptors, such as height, weight, hair, and eye color, and any distinguishing marks or tattoos.
  • Mugshot: A photograph taken during the booking process.
  • Fingerprints: A set of fingerprints taken at the time of the arrest.
  • Criminal Charges: Detailed information about the charges an individual has faced. The level of charges (misdemeanor, felony, etc.).
  • Case Information: Case numbers associated with the individual’s charges. Court of jurisdiction where the case was processed.
  • Convictions: A list of any convictions, including the date and the nature of the offense.
  • Sentencing Information: Details of the sentence imposed for each conviction, such as incarceration, probation, fines, or community service.
  • Status of Parole or Probation: Information on current parole or probation status, if applicable.
  • Arrest Records: Dates of arrests and the agencies that made the arrests.
  • Outstanding Warrants: Any existing warrants are out for the individual’s arrest at the time the record is generated.

Police Records and Reports

New Hampshire police records and reports are official documents detailing incidents and law enforcement responses, which can include arrests, accident reports, and other police activities. They are essential for legal proceedings, background checks, and public awareness. These records can be obtained from the local police department or law enforcement agency responsible for the area in question. For more information or to request records, visit the official website of the New Hampshire State Police at NH State Police Records.

Booking Records and Reports

Booking records and reports in New Hampshire provide information on individuals who have been arrested and booked into a correctional facility. These records typically include the individual's personal information, the charges against them, and details of the booking process. To access booking records and reports, one should contact the specific correctional facility or county jail where the individual was held. The New Hampshire Department of Corrections website NH DOC Records is a useful resource for finding more details on how to access these records.

DUI Records

DUI records in New Hampshire are public records that document cases of driving under the influence, including details of the arrest, charges, and any resulting convictions. These records are crucial for legal purposes, insurance inquiries, and background checks. To access DUI records, interested parties should contact the New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles. More information about DUI records can be found at NH DMV Records.

Felony and Misdemeanor Records

Felony and misdemeanor records in New Hampshire detail criminal convictions and charges at both the felony and misdemeanor levels. These records are vital for background checks, employment screening, and legal documentation. They can be accessed through the New Hampshire Judicial Branch, which maintains these records. For more information or to conduct a search, visit NH Judicial Branch Records.

Parole Records

Parole records in New Hampshire document the release and supervision of individuals who have been granted parole from prison. These records include information on the parolee, the terms of their release, and compliance with parole conditions. To access parole records, contact the New Hampshire Department of Corrections, Parole Board. Additional details and contact information can be found at NH DOC Parole Board.

Probation Records

Probation records in New Hampshire provide details about individuals who have been sentenced to probation rather than prison. These records include personal information about the probationer, the terms of their probation, and compliance status. To access probation records, one should contact the local probation office or the New Hampshire Judicial Branch. Further information is available on the NH Judicial Branch Probation and Parole website.

Warrant Search

In New Hampshire, a warrant search can reveal active arrest and bench warrants. A judge or magistrate issues these warrants, and they are an essential part of the criminal justice process. To conduct a warrant search, individuals should contact the local sheriff's office or the New Hampshire State Police. Information on conducting a warrant search can be found at NH State Police Warrant Search.

Inmate And Jail Records

Inmate and jail records in New Hampshire provide information about individuals who are currently incarcerated or have been in a jail or prison. These records include personal details, incarceration dates, and information about the charges and sentences. To access inmate and jail records, contact the New Hampshire Department of Corrections or the specific jail or prison. The New Hampshire Department of Corrections website NH DOC Inmate Locator offers a tool for locating inmates and accessing their records.

What you can find

Inmate and jail records typically provide a range of information that can include, but is not limited to, the following:

  • Personal Information:
      • Inmate’s full name
      • Date of birth
      • Mugshots
      • Fingerprints
      • Physical description (height, weight, distinguishing marks or tattoos)
  • Criminal Information:
      • Offense(s) for which the inmate was convicted
      • The statute under which the inmate was convicted
      • Sentencing information
      • Case number(s)
      • Court records
  • Incarceration Details:
      • Booking date
      • Assigned facility
      • Prisoner number or ID
      • Housing location within the facility
      • Custody status
  • Correctional Progress:
      • Conduct records while incarcerated
      • Participation in prison programs (educational, vocational, rehabilitation)
      • Disciplinary actions or infractions
  • Release Information:
      • Parole eligibility date
      • Scheduled release date
      • Actual release date
  • Other Records:
    • Audio and video recordings related to the inmate
    • Digital records
    • Any DNA evidence
    • Correspondence records, including emails and letters sent through the prison system

How to Perform an Inmate Search in New Hampshire

To perform an inmate search in New Hampshire, you should begin by accessing the New Hampshire Department of Corrections (DOC) Inmate Locator, available on their website. You’ll need to enter the name or ID number of the inmate if available. This tool will provide you with search results that include active sentencing information and, typically, the statute under which the inmate was convicted. 

If you do not have access to the internet or prefer to handle the matter in person or through another method, you can contact the New Hampshire DOC directly at their Concord office. Additionally, each county jail in New Hampshire is managed by local law enforcement, so for information specific to county jails, you should contact the respective sheriff’s office or city police department. 

It’s also worth noting that some third-party aggregate sites offer comprehensive inmate search services, requiring details such as the name and the location of the inmate to proceed. These services can compile information from multiple databases and provide a detailed report on the inmate’s status.

Can I look up mugshots in New Hampshire?

Yes, you can look up mugshots in New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Arrest Records

The DOC Inmate Locator is a service provided by the New Hampshire DOC that includes information from records held at the DOC Offender Records Office in Concord, New Hampshire. This locator also provides active sentencing information by the statute under which the offender was convicted, which might include mugshots as part of the offender’s record​​.

What Do These Records Contain:

New Hampshire arrest records typically contain the following information:

  • Personal Identification: Full legal name, aliases, date of birth, mugshots, fingerprints, physical descriptors (e.g., height, weight, tattoos, eye and hair color).
  • Arrest Details: Date and location of the arrest, the arresting agency, the charges filed at the time of arrest, and the statute or law allegedly violated.
  • Booking Information: Booking number, time of booking, and any bail or bond conditions if they were set.
  • Case Information: Case number associated with the arrest, court of jurisdiction, and status of the case.
  • Disposition: Information on how the case was resolved in court, including conviction information, sentences, fines, probation details, or release orders.
  • Incarceration Information: If the arrest led to incarceration, details about the facility, incarceration date, and expected release date.
  • Related Documentation: Any warrants, court documents, or related legal filings.

New Hampshire Property and Asset Records Online

To find New Hampshire property and asset records online, you can use several resources:

  • Public Asset Search – New Hampshire: This tool allows you to search for land and building assets in New Hampshire. For guidance on starting a search, there are instructions available on the page, which can be accessed by clicking on the “?” button next to the word “Instructions”​​.
  • NHDeeds.org: This portal is home to the New Hampshire County Registers of Deeds and provides access to deeds records. You can select the county website you wish to visit, such as Belknap, Hillsborough, Merrimack, and others, to search for property records within that county​​.
  • StateRecords.org: This service offers instant access to property records in New Hampshire. The information available includes current and past owners, contact info, bankruptcies, judgments, liens, evictions, property value, tax amounts, sales history, mortgage records, town records, property details, and neighborhood information​​.
  • NH Department of Revenue Administration: The Municipal and Property Division provides access to various links and municipal reports published by the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration. They can be contacted via telephone for more information​​.

Unclaimed Properties in New Hampshire

To find unclaimed properties in New Hampshire, you can follow these steps:

  • Visit the New Hampshire Treasury Unclaimed Property Division Website: Start by visiting the official website of the New Hampshire Treasury Unclaimed Property Division. You can usually find this division within the state’s treasury or comptroller’s office.
  • Search for an Unclaimed Property Database: Look for a searchable database or tool on the website. Many states provide an online database that allows you to search for unclaimed property by name.
  • Enter Your Information: Enter your name or the name of the person you are searching for. You may need to provide additional details, such as the city or county.
  • Review the Results: After entering the necessary information, the database will display a list of unclaimed properties associated with the name you entered.
  • Verify Your Identity: If you find an unclaimed property that appears to belong to you or the person you are searching for, follow the instructions provided on the website to verify your identity and claim the property.
  • Complete the Claim Form: You may be required to complete a claim form provided by the Unclaimed Property Division. This form typically requires your contact information, details about the property, and proof of identity.
  • Submit the Claim Form: Submit the completed claim form and any required documentation to the Unclaimed Property Division. This can often be done electronically through the website, by mail, or in person at their office.
  • Wait for Processing: The Unclaimed Property Division will review your claim and verify the information. This process may take some time, so be patient.
  • Receive Your Unclaimed Property: Once your claim is approved, you will receive your unclaimed property or its cash equivalent.
  • Check Periodically: It’s a good practice to check the unclaimed property database periodically, as new unclaimed properties are added regularly. You might have overlooked assets or funds in the past that have now become available.

Driving Records

To find driving records in New Hampshire, you can follow these steps:

  • Visit the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Website: Start by visiting the official website of the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This is the state agency responsible for maintaining driving records.
  • Locate the Driving Records Section: Look for a section on the website related to driving records or driver history reports. This section may have information on how to request and obtain your driving record.
  • Review the Requirements: Read through the requirements and eligibility criteria for obtaining your driving record. These may include providing your personal information, such as your full name, date of birth, driver’s license number, and contact details.
  • Choose the Request Method: Determine whether you want to request your driving record online, by mail, or in person. Many states offer online services for requesting driving records, which can be the most convenient option.
  • Online Request: If you choose to request your driving record online, follow the instructions provided on the DMV website. You may need to create an account, log in, and provide the required information. Be prepared to pay any applicable fees online.
  • Mail or In-Person Request: If you prefer to request your driving record by mail or in person, download the necessary request form from the DMV website. Fill out the form completely and accurately, and include any required documentation and payment. Mail the form to the address provided or visit a local DMV office in person to submit your request.
  • Pay the Fees: Be prepared to pay the required fees for obtaining your driving record. The fees can vary depending on the type of record and the method of request. Check the DMV website for fee information.
  • Wait for Processing: Once you’ve submitted your request, wait for the DMV to process it. The processing time can vary, so check the DMV website or contact their customer service for estimated processing times.
  • Receive Your Driving Record: Once your request is processed, you will receive your driving record by mail or through the method you selected. Review the record to ensure its accuracy and to check for any violations or incidents.
  • Contact the DMV for Assistance: If you encounter any issues or have questions about obtaining your driving record, don’t hesitate to contact the New Hampshire DMV for assistance. They can provide guidance and support.

Civil Driving Infractions

In New Hampshire, civil driving infractions are non-criminal traffic violations that typically result in the issuance of a traffic ticket or citation. These infractions are considered less serious than criminal traffic offenses but still require compliance with traffic laws. Here are some common examples of civil driving infractions in New Hampshire:

  • Speeding
  • Running a Red Light or Stop Sign
  • Failure to Use Turn Signals
  • Following Too Closely
  • Failure to Yield
  • Seat Belt Violations
  • Cell Phone Use
  • Expired Vehicle Registration
  • No Proof of Insurance
  • Improper Lane Change
  • Parking Violations
  • Equipment Violations

New Hampshire White Pages - Find People, Addresses, and Other Non-Official Information

Address Search ​

In New Hampshire, residents have the privilege of conducting address searches under the provisions of the state’s Public Records Law. While public records may contain specific address-related information, these searches must comply with legal requirements and uphold privacy considerations. Individuals should exercise responsible handling of such information and possess a clear understanding of the legal and ethical boundaries surrounding the acquisition and use of such data.

People Search​

Searching for Individuals The state of New Hampshire provides a range of online tools and databases to assist individuals in locating people. Public records databases prove to be particularly valuable, granting access to fundamental personal details like names, addresses, and telephone numbers, among other pertinent information.

Can I Search By a Phone Number and Identify The Owner?

Reverse phone lookup services empower users to identify the owner of a particular phone number. When users input the phone number into these services, they typically receive information associated with that number, which may include the owner’s identity and in some cases, additional contact details or links to social media profiles.

Access to these services is available through various online platforms. While some may offer basic information for free, more comprehensive details may be subject to a fee. Users should exercise caution in assessing the reliability of these services and remain mindful of privacy regulations. It is crucial to use information obtained through reverse phone lookups ethically and in accordance with legal guidelines.

License Plate Lookup in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, accessing personal information associated with a license plate number is restricted to authorized individuals and agencies for specific purposes, such as law enforcement, government agencies, and certain businesses. Accessing this information without proper authorization is prohibited and may be subject to legal penalties. Here are the key points to understand about license plate lookup in New Hampshire:

  • Restricted Access: Access to personal information linked to license plate numbers is restricted to authorized entities, including law enforcement agencies, government agencies, and businesses with a legitimate need, such as towing companies or insurance companies.
  • Authorized Use: Authorized users typically access license plate information for purposes such as law enforcement investigations, vehicle recovery, insurance claims, and parking enforcement.
  • Privacy Laws: New Hampshire has privacy laws in place to protect the personal information of vehicle owners. Unauthorized access to this information is a violation of privacy laws.
  • Online Search Services: While there are online services that claim to offer license plate lookup services, they may not provide access to personal information. Instead, they may offer general information about the vehicle, such as its make, model, and year. Access to personal information, such as the owner’s name and address, is restricted.
  • Authorized Requests: If you have a legitimate reason to request information associated with a license plate number, you should contact the appropriate law enforcement agency or government department in New Hampshire. They will be able to guide you on the proper procedure for making an authorized request.
  • Penalties: Unauthorized access to personal information linked to license plates can result in legal consequences, including fines and potential criminal charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who and why can request public records?

In New Hampshire, public records are generally accessible to the public, but access may be subject to certain exceptions and restrictions to protect privacy and other interests. The New Hampshire Right-to-Know Law, RSA Chapter 91-A, governs public access to government records in the state. It includes citizens, journalists, researchers, and businesses and applies to both residents and non-residents.

Are there fees associated with requesting public records?

Yes, there can be fees associated with requesting public records in New Hampshire. However, the New Hampshire Right-to-Know Law (RSA Chapter 91-A) provides guidelines and limitations regarding fees to ensure that access to public records is reasonable and affordable for requesters.

Are public records Free to access?

Public records in New Hampshire are generally accessible to the public, but access may be subject to certain exceptions and restrictions, including privacy and security concerns. While many records are available for inspection and copying, there may be fees associated with obtaining copies of records, as discussed in a previous response.

What is the response time for public records requests?

Government agencies in New Hampshire are generally required to respond to public records requests promptly. The New Hampshire Right-to-Know Law (RSA Chapter 91-A) does not specify a specific timeframe for responses but states that responses should be made as soon as practicable. Response times may vary depending on the complexity of the request and the availability of records. Simple requests may receive quicker responses, while more complex requests may take longer to process.

Can my request be rejected?

Yes, public records requests in New Hampshire can be rejected or denied under certain circumstances.

Scroll to Top